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Smithsonian faces $65M cut in Congress' budget

Monday - 10/21/2013, 6:10pm EDT

BRETT ZONGKER
Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Smithsonian Institution is facing a $65 million budget cut
this year under automatic funding reductions approved by Congress, and officials say
that could lead to furloughs or museum closings if the cuts persist for the year
ahead.

Smithsonian Secretary Wayne Clough says the museum complex has trimmed
its budget for the past year to absorb federal funding cuts but now may have to turn
to more drastic measures. He says furloughs and temporary museum closings are up for
discussion.

The Smithsonian Board of Regents met Monday to consider the budget
plans.

The Smithsonian also lost $4 million in revenue due to the government
shutdown. The museums and National Zoo lost sales at retail stores, concessions,
theaters and events.

Congress has approved a continuing resolution for funding
into January.

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